Lookout Mountain is a US Forest Service active Lookout. Though not has high as some surrounding summits, it is typical of lookouts having good forest views. The summit is accessible by automobile. Trees are available for hanging wire antennas.
Apparently seasonal lookout personnel or visitors erect tipis frequently near the summit. Along the Hugh’s Creek road you will pass a Historic US Forest Service Ranger’s cabin. It was built in 1899. It is worth a visit.
There are US Forest Service Campgrounds and Painted Rocks State Park and Campground in the valley below.
Elevation gain: 0’
Trail Miles: This is a drive-up summit.
Water: None except at Alta Campground where there is potable water available. This is within 1/4 mile of where you leave the main West Fork road.
Bear Pepper Spray: Highly recommended in all Northern Idaho and Montana summits.
Map: West Fork Ranger District, Bitterroot National Forest
Directions: South of Darby, MT nearly 4 miles leave highway #93 and travel up the West Fork Bitterroot Road #473 for approximately 30 miles. About ¼ mile beyond the Alta Campground turn left onto the Hugh’s Creek road for ¼ mile then turn left and travel up USFS road #5696 little over 9 miles to the Lookout. The road is a good road for higher clearance automobiles.
